CITES – The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora
Definition: The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is an international agreement for the protection of endangered animal and plant species, which also regulates certain types of wood. It ensures that trade in these woods is sustainable and legal in order to preserve biodiversity. For importers, dealers and end users, this means that special permits and certificates are required, especially for woods such as cumaru.
CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) is the most important international agreement for the protection of endangered wild animal and plant species, including certain commercially used timber. Purpose, annexes, approval procedures and practical consequences for import, trade and Cumaru wood must be considered in order to make safe, legally compliant decisions as a customer or professional.
CITES – The international treaty for the protection of endangered species
Why CITES is important
CITES regulates international trade in species threatened by overexploitation. Species are divided into three appendices: Appendix I (strictly protected), Appendix II (controlled trade to prevent endangerment) and Appendix III (species protection measures of individual states). For timber, this means that certain species or areas of origin require export/import documents, proof of legal origin and sometimes accompanying permits – otherwise there is a risk of confiscation, penalties and delays in delivery. The practical implementation is carried out by national authorities and inspection bodies.
How the rules are applied in trade
The appendices are crucial for importers and traders: wood from species in Appendix II generally requires a species permit from the exporting countries as well as an import declaration. In addition, customs authorities check shipping documents and markings; incorrect documents lead to rejections or additional checks. Proof of origin is required for tropical woods (e.g. cumaru / ipe relatives), chain of custody documents and, if necessary, additional certificates (e.g. FSC) are important to prove sustainability and legality. This reduces risk for retailers and strengthens market acceptance.
Important documents and evidence for CITES-compliant timber trade
Special notes on Cumaru and imports
Cumaru (high-quality, very durable tropical wood) is particularly relevant in trade matters: Countries of origin regulate exports and often require specific paperwork or certificates of origin. Companies such as Betterwood source Cumaru from Peru and work according to verification and sustainability criteria to ensure CITES conformity. When exporting to Switzerland, additional fees (e.g. flora duties/administrative costs) may be incurred and the delivery time may be extended; this should be taken into account when making offers and scheduling. For Planners in terrace construction or furniture construction, correct CITES handling brings legal certainty and fewer delays.
Cumaru at Betterwood – origin, sustainability, export information
Betterwood sources Cumaru from Peru and emphasizes sustainable sourcing with corresponding certificates; this makes the products suitable for construction and furniture projects. When exporting to Switzerland, additional formal steps and fees (flora duties) apply due to CITES regulations, which can extend the delivery time. If you have any questions our advisory service.
Sources:
Federal Agency for Nature Conservation – CITES (Washington Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora),
Wikipedia: Washington Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora
Frequently asked questions about CITES and timber trade
CITES regulates the international trade in certain endangered wood species. It ensures that woods such as teak, rosewood and some varieties of cumaru may only be traded with the appropriate permits and proof of their legal and sustainable origin.
The CITES Convention divides species into three appendices: Appendix I for species threatened with extinction (trade only under exceptional circumstances), Appendix II for species whose trade must be controlled to avoid endangerment (requires export permit), and Appendix III for species protected by individual countries (requires certificate of origin or export permit).
Cumaru (Dipteryx odorata) is currently not listed in the CITES Appendices. However, it is crucial to prove the origin and legality by other evidence (e.g. FLEGT, FSC). It is always advisable to find out about the current situation in advance, as listings can change and individual countries of origin may have their own regulations.
Violations of CITES regulations can lead to severe penalties, including high fines, confiscation of the goods and delays in delivery. Compliance with CITES regulations is therefore essential for companies and private individuals in order to avoid legal consequences and ensure legitimate trade.
from 11,85 €
Cumaru decking boards, FSC 100%
Price from: € 70 per m2, resistance class: 1
Advantages: ✓ best durability ✓ particularly robust and scratch-resistant
Disadvantages: ✗ Partly rough surface ✗ High force development
Tip: Sand the boards after the first weathering.
